For the majority of his life, Keith Ballard has called Minnesota home. Hailing from northern Minnesota and hoisting two national championship trophies with the University of Minnesota, Ballard hoped to one day return home as an NHL player.

It’s a brand-new year. Plenty of excitement surrounds the Minnesota Wild, college and high school hockey – but what about your team? Minnesota Hockey Journal has you covered. Prepare for a big year with these 10 tips.